Critics worry that fetal monitoring __________.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Critics worry that fetal monitoring may identify babies as in danger who, in fact, are not. This can lead to unnecessary interventions and stress for the parents. It is important to carefully consider the accuracy and benefits of fetal monitoring to avoid unnecessary harm to both the mother and the baby. Choice A is incorrect because fetal monitoring does not cause numbness in the lower half of the body. Choice B is incorrect as fetal monitoring is helpful in detecting hidden problems with the baby. Choice D is incorrect as there is no direct link between fetal monitoring and an increased likelihood of infant brain damage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the investigation of over 120,000 New York City births, babies born even 1 to 2 weeks early showed lower reading and math scores at a third-grade follow-up compared to children who experienced a full-length prenatal period. This suggests that being born slightly premature can have an impact on cognitive development, leading to educational challenges later on. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the study specifically highlighted lower reading and math scores, not a reduced likelihood of suffering from childhood obesity or neurological impairments, or improved language and social/emotional scores in early childhood.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the description of the twisting and fanning out of newborn Takeo's toes suggests the Babinski reflex, which is typically elicited by stroking the sole of the foot from toe to heel. The Babinski reflex is a normal response in newborns and indicates proper neurological development. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not elicit the specific response described in the question.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Quiet alertness is indeed the most fleeting state of arousal. This state is characterized by a newborn infant being awake, calm, and attentive, but it is short-lived and transitions quickly to other states of arousal. Regular sleep, REM sleep, and drowsiness are not considered as brief and transitional as quiet alertness in newborn infants.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Young infants usually cry because of physical needs such as hunger, discomfort, or needing to be changed. It is their way of communicating these needs to their caregivers as they are unable to do so in any other way. Choice A is incorrect because infants cry primarily to communicate physical needs, not because they are bored. Choice B is incorrect because the tone of the cry is not the reason why infants cry. Choice D is incorrect because infants cry for various physical needs, not necessarily all night long.